HC Deb 16 June 1915 vol 72 cc656-7
15. Colonel YATE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War when the new scale for the pensions to widows of officers will be issued?

Mr. FORSTER

I am afraid I am unable to name a date, but the urgency of the question is well understood.

Mr. HOGGE

Will these particulars be included in the new Pensions Bill?

Mr. FORSTER

I should like to have notice of that question.

Mr. JONATHAN SAMUEL

Is it not a fact that the officials of the War Office cannot act upon the instructions of the Committee until the Bill becomes law?

Mr. FORSTER

I would rather have notice about the whole question.

20. Mr. WING

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office if he will urge local pension committees to expedite investigations into the circumstances and necessities of soldiers' dependants, in order to reduce the present delays before payment of allowances to such dependants?

Mr. FORSTER

Such instructions were given by the Local Government Board some months ago. If the hon. Member is aware of any cases of undue delay, I shall be glad if he will communicate with me.

Mr. WING

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that in some of the cases the investigation has been made, and that people entitled to the money in January last have not received it yet?

Mr. FORSTER

If my hon. Friend will give me particulars, I will inquire into them.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Would it not be possible to take away the power from the local pension committees and give it to a more responsible committee?

Mr. FORSTER

That would open so large a question that my hon. Friend must give me notice of it.

Mr. WING

I have been continually sending the hon. Gentleman these requests.

Mr. SPEAKER

This is not a time for making statements. The hon. Member should make that representation in the Lobby.